Holly Carter’s reputation as a talented in-demand
instrumentalist is well documented and evidenced in industry-wide acclaim. The
flip side to blossoming in the shadows is bravely moving up front and taking
your turn to present a bunch of largely self-written songs. Applied adept
guitar and award-winning pedal steel retain a charm at the heart of Carter’s
armoury but this time homely spun vocals accompany themes packaged up in the
sentiment of the album title. LEAVE YOUR MARK unveils as eight smartly paraded
original songs honing in on micro and macro positive effects that effectively
leave a mark; a special historical re-interpretation deepening the quality of
the fare and a parting instrumental reaffirming the breadth of Carter’s appeal.
Holly Carter is embedded in socially conscious causes of the
past and present as well as shining a light on some modern-day stigmas. She writes
with care and compassion elegantly conveying her thoughts in enticingly appealing
songs. A tight package emerges from evocative production techniques and commandeering
every inch of a limited time space. Rich guitar tones frequent the room laying
the path for the lyrics to weave into the listening fabric and create an
ambient zone to enjoy the delights of a gratifying debut full length record.
The first outlying track is an exemplary re-recording of ‘Where
the Fraser River Flows’ where iconic labour activist Joe Hill penned some
lyrics in 1912. Carter’s version extols a memorable melody and captures the
emotive resilience of the fight against injustice. The other deviation is the
delicately executed instrumental ‘Morewen’ closing proceedings by bringing all
the elements of the band input together to share the beauty of music.
Three singles have launched this phase of Holly Carter’s
career including the temptingly addictive ‘What You See’ giving the album a sprightly
start with a subtle dig to how things are seen. The writing here is wrapped in
an implicit cloak in contrast to the following track where ‘Stetson Kennedy’
tells the story of an activist and folklorist who infiltrated the KKK in the
60s.
The running order subsequently reveals the other two singles
starting with the thought provoking and waltz-evoking ‘Bear With Me’ adorned
with snippets of trademark steel. This leads into the snappy foot tapping ‘He’s
a Man’ adding a vibrant touch to the sound appeal.
‘Follow Your Lead’ reveals a sultrier sound while poignantly
evaluating some of life’s conundrums and seeking guidance. A timeless feel flows
from the mood induced ‘Idle Eyes’ containing an agreeable guitar solo as you
feel an inane connection between vocals, lyrics and sound.
‘Waiting for You’ reveals a tranquil depth to the work and
perhaps a pensive side to how Holly Carter purveys her craft. This is
repeated in ‘Out to Sea’ which leans on a dreamy quality exhibited by faint
strains of steel.
LEAVE YOUR MARK exposes a deep sincerity to the music of Holly Carter. It harnesses pools of esteemed musicianship with intelligently crafted songs. Ultimately it puts the listener in a better place reiterating belief with honest credence.
